Debunking Myths About Herpes: Facts, Transmission, and Management
Herpes is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affecting millions of people
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes sores around the genital region or mouth during outbreaks. These lesions can sometimes blister open, leaving you with scarring risks. Luckily, you can prevent herpes scars or treat them using various dermatological methods.
At Rapid STD Testing, we help you seek support for different sexually transmitted infections. Below, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about herpes scars, including causes, prevention, and treatment options. If you have symptoms, order a rapid STD test today or visit a local clinic.
Herpes is a common infection caused by herpes simplex virus. Two main types of HSV exist: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, resulting in sores around the lips and mouth, while HSV-1 typically causes genital herpes affecting the genitals, anus, and groin area.
Both forms of HSV can overlap, spreading to either area. Herpes is highly contagious, as it transmits via skin-to-skin contact. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 67% of people younger than 50 have HSV-1, and 491 million have HSV-2.
There is no cure for herpes. Herpes lesions come in waves, called outbreaks. Outbreaks can last a few weeks and may occur every few months or years, depending on the person.
Herpes sores do not always cause scars. Herpes-induced scarring usually occurs when the sores develop into blistering wounds. The following can cause herpes sores to break open:
If you mess with the sores too much, they can break open and develop into a wound that will take much longer to heal. Over time, the blister will turn into a scab and then a scar.
The scar will be categorized by skin discoloration, unusual lines, and a slightly different texture. If you continue picking at the area as it scabs over, you will prolong the healing process and worsen the scar.
In rare scenarios, you can develop scars even when your herpes sores do not turn into blisters. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when your body produces too much melanin as an immune response to inflammation. Essentially, your immune system may trigger excess melanin production while fighting the herpes virus, leaving you with faint scars where you had sores.
People with deeper skin complexions may face higher risks of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Reducing inflammation in the area with cold compresses can help prevent scarring.
Herpes scarring also comes with health implications. As your body attempts to heal from the blisters, you will face higher risks of infections, especially with your immune system already compromised. You must take extra care to keep the area clean and dry.
The treatment for herpes scars will depend on the severity. Minor scars may fade away on their own over time and with home remedies, while deep scarring may require medical treatment. Your provider will examine the area to help you choose the right topical treatments or procedures.
The following treatments can help herpes scars:
If you only have a few light areas of discoloration, your doctor will likely recommend trying out some home remedies rather than the more invasive options above. The top home remedies for genital herpes scars include the following:
If you’ve never used vitamin E, coconut oil, or aloe vera before, do a patch test before applying the product to your scars. You don’t know how your skin will respond to the new substance. Rub a small amount on the top of your forearm and wait 24 hours before washing off and proceeding with the original instructions.
You can often prevent herpes scars by minimizing the formation of sores during outbreaks. While you cannot prevent outbreaks entirely, you can treat sores so they don’t break open into blisters. Preventing herpes scars revolves around treating the skin carefully so it can heal after the outbreak resolves.
We recommend the following to help avoid herpes scars during an outbreak:
After receiving a positive herpes diagnosis, you may feel overwhelmed, shocked, and scared. So, what should you do?
The following are our top tips for living with herpes:
What you shouldn’t do after a herpes diagnosis is blame yourself or feel negatively. You also shouldn’t have sex without using a barrier.
You cannot always prevent outbreaks, though you can try boosting your immune system to keep sores at bay for as long as possible. Our top tips for preventing outbreaks include the following:
Keep in mind that hormonal fluctuations, common colds, and bodily trauma can trigger herpes outbreaks. You may be unable to avoid everything, like your monthly menstrual cycles. Luckily, you can try to eat well and keep your immune system healthy to prolong the time between each outbreak.
Herpes is an incredibly common STI that causes sores across the genitals or mouth. If you don’t know how to treat the sores properly, they may break open into blisters that become scars. Luckily, many treatment options exist for herpes scars.
Whether you have herpes, think you may have symptoms, or just want to stay on top of your health, you’ve come to the right place. Regular STI screening is the best way to catch infections before they worsen. Order same-day STD testing from Rapid STD Testing, visit a local screening clinic, or call our team with any questions.
No embarrassing exams, long waiting lines, or multiple visits. Just a quick lab visit for fast results.
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